Employees and Staffing
- How does the provider select and train its employees?
- Does the agency protect its workers with written policies, procedures, benefit packages, liability insurance, and malpractice insurance?
- What happens if an accident happens in your home or something is missing? Will your insurance be responsible or would the agency’s insurance cover it?
- Does the agency allow caregivers to drive patients to doctor’s appointments or other errands?
Tip: Be sure the any agency you select carries Non-Owned Automobile coverage if they will be escorting or running any errands for you or your loved one. Otherwise, YOU could be responsible for the cost. - Are the caregivers employees or independent contractors?
Tip: This is one of the most important questions the patient or their family should ask. Typically, agencies that label their workers as “independent contractors” do not deduct taxes from the workers’ checks. However, someone is responsible for income tax and social security withholdings. If the caregivers are contractors to the patient, then the patient is responsible to the IRS. Also, if an accident occurs in the patient’s home, the patient would be held responsible if the caregiver is considered an “independent contractor. It is important to note that homeowner’s insurance does not extend to employees. Simply put—do not use an agency that uses contractors for employees. - Does the agency carry workers’ compensation insurance for employees?
Tip: Contract employees (non W2) are generally not covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance. Just because a company says they have coverage does not make it so. If you have any doubt, ask for a copy of the declaration page of the coverage. Legitimate companies will have no problem with this. Private caregivers NEVER have coverage. If they are injured at your home, you will be responsible and your homeowners’ insurance will not cover it. - Does the agency do criminal background checks?
Tip If someone is in your home, especially with an elderly person, you should be sure of his or her background. Also, internet (on-line) checks are not reliable. Anyone working in your home should have a letter on file from a local law enforcement agency that has checked the FBI database. - What happens if my caregiver is sick or cannot work?
Tip: One of the benefits of using some agencies is that a qualified replacement certified nurses’ aide will be available to fill in if your regular caregiver is ill or needs a day off. Be sure to confirm that the agency has adequate staff on hand to meet your needs.
